7 February 2025
From the Administration Team
The Principal – Mr Will Curthoys
Welcome back to 2025! This year we continue our work on Positive School Culture, Relational Pedagogy and implementation of the Curriculum. At any time if you have questions, concerns or just need to talk please contact me. We sincerely value the relationships we have with our community and want to continue to grow this positive relationship. Thank you for entrusting the educational and social growth of your children to us.
Deputy Principal – Mr Dan Finn
Good morning Parents and Carers,
As we welcome students back for another exciting school year, we’re thrilled to see our Year 9 and 10 students embark on their journey of growth, learning, and new opportunities. These pivotal years are a chance for students to further explore their passions, build strong foundations for the future, and take on increasing responsibilities.
Our dedicated teachers have planned an engaging curriculum designed to challenge and inspire students while providing the support they need to thrive. We also encourage students to participate in extracurricular activities, such as sports, arts, and clubs, to develop teamwork and leadership skills.
Parents play an essential role in their children’s success, and we look forward to partnering with you throughout the year. Open communication is key, so please don’t hesitate to reach out to teachers or staff with any questions or concerns.
Stay tuned for upcoming parent-teacher evenings and functions that will provide insight into your child’s academic progress and well-being. Together, let’s make this year a rewarding and memorable one for all our Year 9 and 10 students.
Here’s to a fantastic start to the new school year!
Deputy Principal – Mrs Michelle Ferdinand
As we commence 2025, we welcome 130 Year 7 students to our wonderful school.
It will be a pleasure to watch them thrive at Warwick High with our Positive School Culture and caring supportive staff embracing Relational Pedagogy.
Rebecca Rogers will be in the role of Year 7 Co-ordinator and will be nurturing these young people to be the best they can be.
Students make the most of the opportunities that Warwick High has to offer and I urge parents to encourage their children to participate.
Meet some of the Wellbeing Team that support students at Warwick High.
Youth Support Co-ordinator Role
There are two Youth Support Coordinators (YSCs) at Warwick State High School – Tanya Jones and Travis Bradach. Both offer support to students in Years 7-12 individually and in group programs. They are also engaged in other school activities throughout the year: Positive School Culture Rewards, National Bullying Awareness, RUOK Day, Mental Health Week, Kindness Club, and so on.
Their focus is to support at-risk students to remain engaged with their education and enhance their opportunities for further education / sustainable future employment. The role of the YSC reflects the specific needs of the school.
- Refer at-risk students to appropriate agencies and support services that will assist students to overcome barriers to education and training
- Provide individual support, case management, and, where appropriate, group support to students to maximise their engagement with education and training
- Identify barriers to achieving outcomes
- Increase participation
- Promote social inclusion
- Develop/foster relationships between school, family, and students
- Provide strategies to achieve goals
- Monitor attendance and support school’s intervention strategies
- Identify and provide appropriate assistance for any difficulties students experience at home or school which may put them at risk of leaving school prematurely.
Teacher Aide Engagement
Nikki Rigney and Glenn O’Brien
These teacher aides work to encourage student participation in class and assist with class work and assessments. They help students navigate the change into high school and achieve the best results they can.
Chaplain
Marie Brennan
The Chaplain supports students with their social and emotional needs. Some small groups are conducted to promote and encourage friendships, confidence and building healthy relationships. Marie co-ordinates Breaky Club and assists in running whole school events.
For three days per week Marie works as a teacher aide to assist our senior First Nation students attain their QCE.
CEC
Morgan Charles
The primary role of the Community Educational Counsellor (CEC) is to support the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and their families.
The CEC provides support in a variety of ways.
- Pastoral care (assist in building positive relationships)
- Improve students wellbeing by providing a link between home and the school
- Facilitating the growth of a positive cultural identity by organizing and conducting cultural programs and assisting teachers
- Integrating a positive cultural identity into a wider multicultural society
- Assist with extra-curricular and co-curricular activities for students and parents
- Working with parents, students and teachers to resolve issues or concerns
Behaviour Support Teacher
Andrew Jones
The role of the Behaviour Support teacher includes:
- Support students to achieve within the framework of Positive School Culture (PSC)
- Support teachers in class with the implementation and ongoing delivery of PSC expected behaviours
- Support with the explicit teaching and delivery of PSC expected behaviours through focus clips and posters
- Facilitate student groups focusing on areas of need within the PSC framework
School-based Youth Health Nurse
Hello everyone,
My name is Taylah Broomhall, I am your School-Based Youth Health Nurse (SBYHN). I have been nursing now for 10 years and I am looking forward to another year working within Warwick High community.
The School Based Youth Health Nurse is available to speak to about health and well-being:
- General Health – nutrition, physical activity, sleep, self-care, medical conditions
- Mental and Emotional Health – feeling sad, worried, anxious or angry, loss and grief
- Relationship difficulties with family members, friends or peers
- Risk taking behaviours – smoking, alcohol, and drug use, harming behaviours, harm reduction, self-harm
- Sexual Health – infections, contraception, pregnancy
- Personal problems.
Anything can impact upon a young person’s health, which can in turn impact upon learning.
Appointments
SBYHN is available five days a fortnight and students can make a booking at the front office.
Confidentiality
Young people have the right to confidentiality when accessing health services. Confidentiality means not talking to others about your personal issues. As a health service provider, the Youth Health Nurse respects your privacy but there are some things which the nurse must refer, or act upon.
Parents/Carers
In most cases it is best for young people to talk to their parents/carers about their health and wellbeing issues. The Youth Health Nurse can support young people to do this.
The Youth Health Nurse does not provide:
- Treatment such as medication, injections and first aid
- Physical examinations
- Ongoing counselling for psychological problems
At times other services can provide more appropriate or further help or support for young people. The Youth Health Nurse will discuss the options for working with other services or linking young people with the right services.
Belonging Day Year 7
The belonging program was held on Thursday 30 January. It was a full day program designed specifically for the Year 7 students. Students completed sessions on Positive School Culture, respectful communication, time capsule writing and team building activities. The aim of the day was to help students adjust to high school culture, expectations and routines.
Deputy Principal – Mr Daryl Thompson
School Photos
School Photos – Tuesday 25 February 2025.
TAFE or School-Based Traineeship/Apprenticeship students must arrive at school at 8:00am to have their photo taken before TAFE or work.
Year 7 - 12 classes will be scheduled to have photos taken during the day.
Year 7 – 11 students to wear general uniform and Year 12 students must wear formal school uniform for the photos.
Ordering online is the preferred option for Student photos, however photo envelopes will be distributed to students Week 2 Term 1. Envelopes can also be collected from the Office, if required.
Envelopes need to be completed and returned directly to the photographers on 25 February 2025.
Senior Secondary News
Head of Department – Mr Cory Wren
Welcome to 2025
We again look forward to another busy and successful year in the Senior Secondary area. Students have made an excellent start to classes and it was great to see so many smiling faces returning to school on Day 1.
Thanks to Year 12 Coordinator Mr Cody Grubb who decorated the Year 12 area to celebrate the students’ “Last First Day”.
Welcome Mrs Waples
This year we welcome Mrs Leanne Waples to the Senior Secondary Team as Senior Liaison Officer. Mrs Waples is replacing Ms Vicki Buttrose who worked tirelessly over many years to ensure success for senior students.
Mrs Waples’ role is to assist Year 10 – 12 students in their academic success, in what can be a difficult and stressful period of schooling. Senior students are encouraged to seek support from the Senior Secondary Hub if, and when, they need it.
Work Experience
Work Experience will again take place in Week 10 of Terms 1 and 3. Work Experience is an excellent opportunity for students to get a taste of an industry or particular job, which informs their decisions moving forward. Expression of Interest forms for Term 1 are available from Ana in the Senior Secondary Hub.
We are always on the lookout for new businesses and employers who would like to participate in our Work Experience program. Please contact Ana via email at SATs@warwickshs.eq.edu.au.
The Arts News
Head of Department - Mr Ian Follett
Welcome to 2025!
The Arts Faculty teachers would like to extend a very warm welcome to all of our new and returning students. We hope that 2025 brings interesting classroom experiences, engaged learning and enthusiastic discussions in the many and varied subjects offered by the Arts Faculty.
Below is a list of upcoming Arts events for Term 1:
- Instrumental Music 2025 – sign-on – Week 1
- 2025 Warwick State High School Musical Auditions – Week 2 and 3
- Year 11-12 Drama and Arts In Practice Performance ‘Animal Farm’– Week 4, February 17
- Instrumental Music ‘Wind Symphony’ Performance on School Leaders Induction Ceremony – Week 4, February 21
- Year 9-12 Music Excursion to QPAC ‘Sister Act – The Musical’ – Week 7, March 12
- Full Day Rehearsal for Warwick State High School 2025 School Musical Production – Week 10, April 3.
More details about the above events will be shared as the details become available.
Thank you
Ian Follett
HOD – The Arts
The Instrumental Music Program
Warwick State High School boasts a successful Instrumental Music program which is the only one of its kind in a Secondary School in Warwick. Since the program’s inception, the quality of musical expertise that students develop has continued to grow, thus maintaining a strong tradition of excellence in the community.
Students at Warwick State High School who enrol in the Instrumental Music Program have a choice of instruction using a broad range of instruments including Brass, String, Woodwind and Percussion instruments. A ‘sign-on’ for 2025 occurred week 1 and lessons will begin in week 3 (week starting February 10). The student’s lesson timetables will be displayed on The Arts Notice Board in C-Block. Teachers for this year are Mrs Andersen for String Instruments (Thursday am), and Mr Waples for Woodwind, Brass and Percussion instruments (Wednesday and Friday). However, if students are new to Warwick State High School, have never played a musical instrument before, or have not yet put their name down, there are still places available. These students should see Mr Follett (HOD – The Arts), in the lower C-Block staff room as soon as possible.
Students also have the opportunity to play in one or more of the various Ensembles and Bands operating within the school. These groups enjoy a high profile within the community through their many and varied public performances. Students for 2025 will be organised into Ensembles and Bands, and will start rehearsing soon. The first performance for the year will involve the Wind Symphony on the Student Leader Investiture on Friday February 21.
In 2025 there will be four ensemble groups rehearsing and performing, ranging from smaller ensembles such as the String Ensemble, to the larger Wind Symphony, and Stage Band groups (other small Chamber size groups may be added as the year progresses). With this variety of performance and musical opportunities, students can develop their skills in a broad musical sphere ranging from classical to contemporary genres. The Instrumental Music program’s main aim is to instill in students an appreciation and love of music through participation.
For more information, please contact the Head of Department The Arts – Ian Follett 4666 9225
English and Humanities News
Acting Head of Department – Mrs Kirsty Caterson
Welcome to the New Year
The English, Humanities, and Languages Faculty is ready for a productive year of learning and growth.
Here’s what we’re focusing on in each area:
English
Students will read and analyse a range of texts, enhance their writing skills, and develop critical thinking through engaging literature and communication activities. Students in Year 7 will have the opportunity to engage in Vocabulary and Reading Groups each week. Students in Year 8 will engage in fortnightly Reading Groups.
Humanities
Our focus is on understanding History, Geography, Business and Civics and Citizenship to explore the past, evaluate the present, and shape the future.
Languages
Students will learn new communication skills, explore cultural perspectives, and build global connections through the language study of Japanese.
We encourage parents to reach out to teachers if they have any questions or concerns. Let’s work together for a successful year!
Technology News
Head of Department – Mr Bradley Hutchinson
The Technology Faculty wishes to welcome students back for another exciting year of learning at Warwick State High School. Before the fun can begin, it is important that students have returned a high-risk permission form. Students will be given time during Manual Arts lessons to complete relevant On-Guard training prior to the commencement of practical activities. We look forward to seeing what students create this year.
Mathematics and Science News
Head of Department – Mr Brian Amedee
Welcome back to another exciting term at Warwick State High School! The Mathematics and Science faculty is thrilled to continue fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment for every student, in every lesson, every day. Our terrific team of staff is here to guide and inspire our young people as we dive into fresh challenges and opportunities.
We are pleased to announce that after-school Mathematics tutoring will continue to take place every Tuesday afternoon in S Block, from 3:10 pm to 4:10 pm. These sessions will begin in Week 2 and run through to Week 9. Whether you need a bit of extra help or simply want to extend your skills, our dedicated teachers will be on hand to support your learning journey. Students please come armed with questions, homework and problems, and our fantastic group of teachers will assist you.
For those who enjoy hands-on projects and creative problem-solving, STEM Club will be back on Thursdays. This is a wonderful chance for students to explore new ideas, collaborate with peers, and deepen their passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Looking ahead, the Mathematics and Science faculty is proud to host, for the first time, a Year 6 STEM Challenge in TPAC on March 5. We hope this exciting event will ignite curiosity in our younger learners and showcase the many possibilities that STEM education can offer, and the value that this wonderful school can provide these students in their future academic ventures.
Students in Years 7 to 10 will have the opportunity to attend the World Science Festival in Brisbane on March 26. This remarkable event promises engaging exhibits, interactive experiences, and the chance to learn from leading experts. Permission forms regarding this event will be sent home with students.
We look forward to a wonderful term filled with discovery, growth, and academic success in 2025 at Warwick State High School.
Best Regards,
Brian Amedee – HOD Mathematics and Science
Physical Education, Teaching and Learning News
Head of Department – Mrs Tanya Wright
Welcome back! With the first newsletter of 2025, I would like to go through some general information and our HPE expectations and ask that you support their implementation with your student/s.
Year 7 – 9 students will be attending two lessons of practical HPE and one lesson of Health/Wellbeing per week. Areas covered in practical units are Game Skills, Invasion Games and Striking/Fielding to start the year.
Year 10 students will be engaging in a taste tester unit for 10 weeks that will provide them with opportunities to experience elements of senior subjects to help streamline subject choices in SET planning. This will be supported in Term 1 through the practical sport of volleyball.
This is the first year of implementation of our Certificate II in Sports Coaching and we are looking forward to our senior students working with cluster primary schools to develop foundational sporting skills, improve strategy application and progress positive team work skills.
Our Year 11 and 12 Physical Education students will be working on motor learning and tactical awareness respectively and our Certificate III in Fitness students will be delving into the sport, fitness and recreation industry with a particular focus on cardio workouts.
In all HPE lessons, students are expected to come prepared for activities. Books and pencils are essential for health/wellbeing lessons and a hat and water bottle are needed for practical lessons. If your student is unable to participate in a practical HPE lesson, contact with the teacher and or school is essential.
The HPE team look forward to supporting all students to develop skills, understanding and willingness to positively influence the health and wellbeing of themselves and their communities.
Special Education Program News
Acting Head of Department – Ms Jacinta Boland
Welcome to the 2025 school year! At Warwick SHS, we have a diverse range of learners, each of whom may require a different form of support in order to thrive at school. If you have any concerns about the progress of your student, please do not hesitate to contact us, so we can devise a plan for support. We have a wonderful team of staff to assist with this, and this year we also welcome Miss Ella Harrison who will be supporting some of our Year 7 students.
Hi my name is Ella Harrison (Miss H) and I am a new teacher at Warwick SHS. I have recently moved back to my hometown of Allora after spending three and a bit years in St George. While in St George I worked as an English and Learning Support teacher at St George SHS and as the Acting Head of Special Education Services for the Balonne Cluster. This year I will be teaching mainly Year 7s and am looking forward to supporting them through their transition into high school. A couple of things about me…I’m a keen netballer (key word keen and not good), and am stoked to be living closer to my family after three years out west. I'm excited to be part of this school community and look forward to getting to know students, families, and staff.
Student Council News
Student Council 2025
Welcome back! The Student Council is looking forward to another exciting year at Warwick State High School. This group of students meet regularly and conduct many fabulous events for our student community. Events include, Clean Up Australia Day, Pink Stumps Day, NAIDOC week, the Colour Run, Spirit Week, Whoosh week and the World’s Greatest Shave. Nominations are currently being completed and voting taking place for the 2025 Student Council. All students will be formally announced at the upcoming Leadership Investiture in Week 4. Invitations to attend this event should be arriving in your mailbox if your child was elected. If you have not received one, please contact the school office.
QParents
Office News
Contact Details
Keeping parent and emergency contact details up-to-date is very important so that we can contact you if your student is unwell or requires urgent medical attention. Attached is a “Change of Details” form for your convenience so that, if necessary, this can be completed and returned to the school.
Leave Passes
In summary:
- All students leaving the school during the day, MUST be signed out of the school by a parent/caregiver, this must be done via the Main Office. After showing their Student ID card, they will be issued with a Leave Pass.
- Students are NOT permitted to sign out of the school unless a parent/caregiver (or another adult nominated by the parent in writing) is present. Students must present this Leave Pass, as requested, to teachers or police officers when outside the school grounds.
- All students returning to school must do so via the Main Office with a parent/caregiver present. After showing their Student ID card, they will receive a Returning Pass, which must be shown to their class teacher.
- Students who are registered to drive to school do not need a parent/caregiver to be present to sign out. However, parental permission to leave must be obtained by the school in writing from parent/caregiver.
Messages to Students
Messages to students will be taken and delivered only in an emergency. Whilst every effort is made to deliver these messages, please note that classrooms do not have telephones.
Student Resource Scheme
The Student Resource Scheme fee for 2025 is $195.00. To ensure your student is able to participate in extra-curricular activities now is the time to start discussing your payment options with us.
We have options available for payment: Cash, Cheque, Eftpos, Payment Plans and Centrepay.
If you are currently receiving Centrelink payments, we can set up Centrepay or if not, we can set up a Payment Plan where you can make direct deposits into our bank account to make regular payments for your fees.
Please contact Paula in the Main Office on 4666 9232 for assistance.
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